Vehicle accessory device and system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are accessory devices and systems for vehicles including: a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plate at a plurality of locations; and at least one auxiliary visor panel or accessory connected to the base plate assembly. Also disclosed herein are method of using the disclosed devices and systems for interchangeably moving the base plate assembly with connected auxiliary visor panel or accessory between vehicles.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to vehicle accessory devices and systems,such as interchangeable vehicle visor device and systems for shading.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

While driving, it is often necessary or desirable to selectivelyposition various vehicle accessories, for example, selectivelypositioning a visor to shade oneself from potentially dangerous sun orbright glare or selectively positioning a dash cam to point in aspecific direction. Vehicle visors are a common type of vehicleaccessory device that are used to provide protection from sun or brightlight in certain settings. For example, the vehicle visor can be pivoteddown to offer protection from exposure directly ahead or can bepositioned against the side window to shade sun or bright light comingthrough the side window. However, standard vehicle visors only offerprotection from sun or shade coming from a single direction, and aredifficult to move and position with the changing sun.

Accordingly, there remains a need for new vehicle accessory devices andsystems, independent of the standard vehicle visor, which are capable ofeasily being moved in a number of positions and should preferably beable to be releasably secured to an existing vehicle structure. Further,it would be advantageous for the vehicle accessory devices to be easilymovable between different vehicles and be able to connect variousvehicle accessories in addition to visors. This need and other needs aresatisfied by the various aspects of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the purposes of the invention, as embodied andbroadly described herein, the invention, in one aspect, relates to avehicle accessory device and system for connecting and selectivelypositioning vehicle accessories, such as, for example, a visor forproviding shade or glare reduction.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle accessory system,the system comprising: a base plate assembly comprising a base plate andan articulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly securedto a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to bedetachably couple with the base plate for securing to the vehicle,articulating bracket configured to be secured at a plurality oflocations along the base plate; and at least one auxiliary visor panelor accessory connected to the base plate assembly.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle visor system, thesystem comprising a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and anarticulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured toa portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to bedetachably couple with the base plate for securing to the vehicle,articulating bracket configured to be secured at a plurality oflocations along the base plate; and at least one auxiliary visor panelconnected to the base plate assembly.

In another aspect, the invention relates to an interchangeable vehicleaccessory system comprising a base plate assembly including a base plateand an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedlysecured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracketconfigured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plateat a plurality of locations along the base plate, the articulatingbracket being configured to connect with a variety of vehicleaccessories.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle accessoryconnection system comprising: a base plate assembly comprising a baseplate and an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to befixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracketconfigured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plateat a plurality of locations along the base plate; wherein thearticulating bracket is configured to connect with at least oneauxiliary visor panel or vehicle accessory.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a vehicle accessoryconnection device comprising a base plate; and an articulating bracket,the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of avehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be releasably securedto the vehicle using the base plate at a plurality of locations alongthe base plate; wherein the articulating bracket is configured toconnect with at least one vehicle accessory.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a system comprising anarticulating bracket configured to releasably secured to a portion of avehicle, the articulating bracket comprising a bracket base and a hingebody having first and second opposed ends, the first end of the hingebody configured to pivotably connect with the bracket base at a firstpivot axis, and the second end of the hinge body configured to pivotablyconnect with an auxiliary visor panel or vehicle accessory at a secondpivot axis. In further aspects, the system may include a base plateconfigured to be fixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle, wherein thearticulating bracket configured to be detachably coupled with the baseplate for securing to the vehicle. Accordingly, the articulating bracketmay be configured to be secured at a plurality of locations along thebase plate.

In further aspects, the invention also relates to methods for using thedisclosed devices and systems. In still further aspects, the discloseddevices and systems work and are independent of the standard OEM vehiclevisor, and thus, can be capable of easily being moved in a number ofpositions to provide multi-direction protection and functions.

Additional aspects of the invention will be set forth in part in thedescription which follows, and in part will be obvious from thedescription, or can be learned by practice of the invention. Theadvantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means ofthe elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appendedclaims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following detailed description are exemplary andexplanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the inventionand together with the description, serve to explain the principles ofthe invention.

FIGS. 1A-1E show depictions of a visor system in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2A-2D show depictions of a visor system in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 3A-3D show depictions of a base plate and articulating bracket inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 4A-4C show depictions of a base plate and articulating bracket ofa visor system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 5A-5B show depictions of a base plate and articulating bracket inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6A shows a depiction of a hinge body in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6B shows a depiction of an accessory connector in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows a depiction of an accessory connector and auxiliary panelsof a visor system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 8 shows a depiction of an accessory connector and auxiliary panelsof a visor system in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 shows a depiction of an accessory connector for auxiliary panelsin accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 shows a method for providing glare protection using a disclosedvisor system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention can be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of the invention and the Examplesincluded therein.

Before the present articles, systems, devices, and/or methods aredisclosed and described, it is to be understood that they are notlimited to specific manufacturing methods unless otherwise specified, orto particular materials unless otherwise specified, as such can, ofcourse, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology usedherein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and isnot intended to be limiting. Although any methods and materials similaror equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice ortesting of the present invention, example methods and materials are nowdescribed.

Moreover, it is to be understood that unless otherwise expressly stated,it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construedas requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order.Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order tobe followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated inthe claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to aspecific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in anyrespect. This holds for any possible non-express basis forinterpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangementof steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammaticalorganization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects describedin the specification.

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by referenceto disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in connection withwhich the publications are cited.

A. Definitions

It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for thepurpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to belimiting. As used in the specification and in the claims, the term“comprising” can include the aspects “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of” Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientificterms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ofordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. In thisspecification and in the claims which follow, reference will be made toa number of terms which shall be defined herein.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms“a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearlydictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “an aperture”includes two or more apertures.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from one particular value, and/or toanother particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspectincludes from the one particular value and/or to the other particularvalue. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use ofthe antecedent ‘about,’ it will be understood that the particular valueforms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpointsof each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the otherendpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understoodthat there are a number of values disclosed herein, and that each valueis also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition tothe value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then“about 10” is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unitbetween two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

As used herein, the terms “about” and “at or about” mean that the amountor value in question can be the value designated some other valueapproximately or about the same. It is generally understood, as usedherein, that it is the nominal value indicated ±10% variation unlessotherwise indicated or inferred. The term is intended to convey thatsimilar values promote equivalent results or effects recited in theclaims. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations,parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and neednot be exact, but can be approximate and/or larger or smaller, asdesired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off,measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those ofskill in the art. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter orother quantity or characteristic is “about” or “approximate” whether ornot expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where “about” isused before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes thespecific quantitative value itself, unless specifically statedotherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “first part,” “second part,” and the like,where used herein, do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, andare used to distinguish one element from another, unless specificallystated otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” means that thesubsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, andthat the description includes instances where said event or circumstanceoccurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase“optionally affixed to the surface” means that it can or cannot be fixedto a surface.

Moreover, it is to be understood that unless otherwise expressly stated,it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construedas requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order.Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order tobe followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated inthe claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to aspecific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in anyrespect. This holds for any possible non-express basis forinterpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangementof steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammaticalorganization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects describedin the specification.

Disclosed are the components to be used to manufacture the discloseddevices and articles of the invention as well as the materialsthemselves to be used within the methods disclosed herein. These andother materials are disclosed herein, and it is understood that whencombinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these materials aredisclosed that while specific reference of each various individual andcollective combinations and permutation of these materials cannot beexplicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and describedherein. For example, if a particular material is disclosed and discussedand a number of modifications that can be made to the materials arediscussed, specifically contemplated is each and every combination andpermutation of the material and the modifications that are possibleunless specifically indicated to the contrary. Thus, if a class ofmaterials A, B, and C are disclosed as well as a class of materials D,E, and F and an example of a combination material, A-D is disclosed,then even if each is not individually recited each is individually andcollectively contemplated meaning combinations, A-E, A-F, B-D, B-E, B-F,C-D, C-E, and C-F are considered disclosed. Likewise, any subset orcombination of these is also disclosed. Thus, for example, the sub-groupof A-E, B-F, and C-E would be considered disclosed. This concept appliesto all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, stepsin methods of making and using the articles and devices of theinvention. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can beperformed it is understood that each of these additional steps can beperformed with any specific aspect or combination of aspects of themethods of the invention.

It is understood that the devices and systems disclosed herein havecertain functions. Disclosed herein are certain structural requirementsfor performing the disclosed functions, and it is understood that thereare a variety of structures that can perform the same function that arerelated to the disclosed structures, and that these structures willtypically achieve the same result.

B. Accessory Device and System Overview

As briefly described above, the present disclosure relates, in variousaspects, to accessory devices and systems for selectively mounting andpositioning vehicle accessories, such as vehicle visors, dash cams, andthe like. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a vehicleaccessory system comprising a base plate assembly comprising a baseplate and an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to befixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracketconfigured to be detachably couple with the base plate for securing tothe vehicle, articulating bracket configured to be secured at aplurality of locations along the base plate; and at least one auxiliaryvisor panel or accessory connected to the base plate assembly.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a visor systemincluding a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and anarticulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured toa portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to bereleasably secured to the vehicle using the base plate at a plurality oflocations along the base plate; and at least one auxiliary visor panelconnected to the base plate assembly.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a vehicle accessoryconnection system comprising a base plate assembly comprising a baseplate and an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to befixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracketconfigured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plateat a plurality of locations along the base plate. In further aspects,the articulating bracket may be configured to connect with a pluralityof different accessories, such as an auxiliary visor panel or accessory.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a vehicle accessoryconnection device comprising a base plate and an articulating bracketconfigured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plateat a plurality of locations along the base plate. The articulatingbracket can then be used to connect a variety of vehicle accessories.

In various aspects, the system may comprise at least one base plateassembly. In further aspects, the base plate assembly generallycomprises at one base plate (which may also be referred to herein as a“mounting plate”) and at least one bracket configured to be releasablysecured thereto. In still further aspects, the base plate assembly maycomprise at one base plate and at least one articulating bracket. Insome aspects, the system may comprise a plurality of base plates and/orbrackets. A plurality of base plates may be fixedly mounted in variousvehicles, allowing just the bracket to be moved between the cars. Instill further aspects, the base plate assembly and/or articulatingbracket may be configured to interchangeably connect with a plurality ofauxiliary visor panels and/or accessories.

In further aspects, an articulating bracket of the present invention maycomprise a bracket base connected with a hinge body or bracket body. Instill further aspects, the articulating bracket may further comprise atleast one hinge member configured to pivotably connect the bracket baseand hinge body at a first connection axis or pivot axis. In yet furtheraspects, an auxiliary visor panel or accessory may be configured toreleasably connect to the articulating bracket or hinge body at a secondconnection axis or pivot axis. To this end, the articulating bracket cancomprise a bracket base, a hinge body, and at least one hinge member ormechanism configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and hingebody at a first pivot axis or connection axis. The articulating bracketmay also comprise a second hinge member or mechanism configured topivotably connect the hinge body and a visor panel or vehicle accessoryat a second pivot axis or connection axis. Thus, in various embodiments,the articulating bracket can comprise a bracket base, a hinge body, afirst hinge member or mechanism configured to pivotably connect thebracket base and hinge body at a first pivot axis or connection axis,and a second hinge member or mechanism configured to pivotably connectthe hinge body and a visor panel or vehicle accessory at a second pivotaxis or connection axis. In further aspects, the articulating bracketmay comprise any mechanism capable of allowing movement, rotation orpivoting at the pivot or connection point, including but not limited tohinge mechanisms, hinges, joints, ball joints, and the like. In stillfurther aspects, the articulating bracket may comprise at least onemechanism configured to pivotably connect the bracket at one or morepivot or rotation axes. In yet further aspects, the articulating bracketmay comprise a plurality of mechanisms configured to pivotably connectthe bracket at a plurality of pivot or rotation axes. In someembodiments, the articulating bracket may comprise a first mechanismconfigured to pivotably connect the bracket at the first pivot orrotation axis, and a second mechanism configured to pivotably connectthe bracket at a second pivot or rotation axis. In other embodiments,the articulating bracket may comprise a first mechanism configured topivotably connect a bracket base and first end of the hinge body at thefirst pivot or rotation axis, and a second mechanism configured topivotably connect a second end of the hinge body and an auxiliary visorpanel at a second pivot or rotation axis.

In some aspects, the bracket base may be configured to connect at afirst pivot axis of the articulating bracket; and an auxiliary visorpanel or other accessory may be configured to connect to thearticulating bracket and or hinge body at a second pivot axis. In otheraspects, the bracket base may be configured to connect at a firstconnection axis of the articulating bracket; and an auxiliary visorpanel or other accessory may be configured to connect to thearticulating bracket and/or hinge body at a second connection axis. Asis described in more detail herein, a hinge body (or bracket body) ofthe present invention may be configured to connect to the bracket baseat a first pivot axis (or fixed connection axis) located at a first endof the hinge body, while an auxiliary visor panel or other accessory maybe configured to connect to the hinge body at a second pivot axis (orfixed connection axis) located at an opposed second end of the hingebody. For example, according to some embodiments, the hinge body may beconfigured to rotatably connect to the bracket base at a first pivotaxis located at a first end of the hinge body, while an auxiliary visorpanel or other accessory is configured to rotatably connect to the hingebody at a second pivot axis located at an opposed second end of thehinge body. In other embodiments, the hinge body may be configured torotatably connect to the bracket base at a first pivot axis located at afirst end of the hinge body, while an auxiliary visor panel or otheraccessory is configured to fixedly connect to the hinge body at a secondconnection axis located at an opposed second end of the hinge body. Tothis end, one or both axes may be rotatable pivot axis and/or fixedconnection axis. In further aspects, the bracket base may comprise oneor more bracket posts, each bracket post being configured to secure anend of the hinge member. In still further aspect, each bracket post maycomprise an aperture dimensioned and shaped to receive and secure an endof the hinge member. In some embodiments, each bracket post may comprisea plurality of grooves on an inner surface for receiving and retainingtherein one or more ball plungers or pegs extending from the hinge body.The plurality of grooves may be configured to releasably retain one ormore ball plungers or pegs for selectively securing the first end of thehinge body at a predetermined position along a first rotational axis.

In various aspects, the articulating bracket is configured to bereleasably secured to the base plate in a fixed position using at leastone securing component or securing means. More specifically, the bracketbase may be configured to be releasably secured to the base plate in afixed position using at least one securing means or securing component.In further aspects, the bracket base and base plate may be configured tocouple using a tongue and groove arrangement, or the like. In stillfurther aspects, the bracket base may comprise a groove or slot and thebase plate may comprise a tongue or rail. Accordingly, the base platetongue or rail inserts into the bracket base groove or slot, and thenone or more one securing components is used to releasably secure thebracket base to the base plate in one or more desired positions alongthe length of the base plate. In yet further aspects, the bracket basemay comprise a groove and the base plate may comprise a tongue or rail,and the bracket base groove and base plate tongue or rail cooperate toreleasably secure the bracket base against the base plate in a fixedposition using at least one securing component. In even further aspects,the bracket base groove, base plate tongue, and the securing componentcan cooperate to releasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixedposition, more specifically, by releasably securing the bracket base tothe base plate in a fixed position. In further aspects, the articulatingbracket or bracket base may comprise a rotational joint that can besnapped into a receiving pocket on the base plate. In still furtheraspects, the system may further comprise a bridging piece to connect thebase plate and the bracket. In some aspects, the bridging piece and thebase plate are connected by tongue and groove but are not detachable,while the bridging piece can be releasably connected to the bracket viaother means.

To this end, the bracket base, base plate, and securing componenttogether comprise a unique sliding attachment mechanism, wherein thelockable bracket base slides onto a rail or groove on the base plate andthe securing component releasably secures or otherwise locks the bracketbase at a fixed position along the rail of the base plate. In an examplemode of operation, the base plate may be fixedly mounted to thewindshield and the bracket base would slide onto a rail or tongueportion of the base plate. This configuration and construction allow thearticulating bracket to slide or move laterally along the base plate andbe releasably secured at a plurality of different positions along thelength of the base plate. Furthermore, using the present system, baseplates can be any desired length and installed in multiple cars,allowing the articulating bracket to be installed in countless locationand moved from one car and installed in another car.

In various aspects, the tongue and/or rail of the base plate maycomprise a recessed portion, groove and/or slot, which is configured tointeract with the securing component to releasably secure the bracketbase to the base plate in a fixed position. By way of non-limitingexample, in some embodiments, the base plate may additionally oralternatively comprise multiple slots that correspond to the varioussecuring position along the base plate, and the bracket base has agroove to correspond with elevated rail portion of the base plate andsecuring component may be a depressible button configured to releasablycouple with the slots on the base plate. In other embodiments, thesecuring component may be a rotatably button configured to press orfriction fit against the base plate. According to further aspects, thebase plate tongue may comprise a recessed portion, and the securingcomponent may be configured to cooperate with the recessed portion toreleasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixed position. In stillfurther aspects, the base plate rail may comprise one or more slots, andthe securing component may be configured to cooperate with one or moreslots to releasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixed position.In even further aspects, the tongue and groove structure can slide, butcomprise stops at both ends of the groove. For example, said stop couldtake the form of a snap-on plug at the end of the groove. To this end,the articulating bracket could still slide within the groove but wouldnot be releasable unless one or more stops are removed.

In further aspects, the securing component may be configured to extendthrough an opening within the bracket base to cooperate with the baseplate tongue or rail to releasably secure the bracket base to the baseplate in a fixed position. For example, in some aspects, a base platetongue may comprise a recessed portion or slot where the securingcomponent is configured to extend through an opening within the bracketbase to cooperate with the recessed portion or slot to releasably securethe bracket base to the base plate in a fixed position. In otheraspects, a base plate rail may comprise a recessed portion or slot; andwherein the securing component is configured to extend through anopening within the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portionor slot to releasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixedposition.

In various further aspects, the base plate assembly and/or bracket basecomprise a locked state and an unlocked state. In still further aspects,in the locked state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base issecured to the base plate in a fixed position. In yet further aspects,in the unlocked state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base isconfigured to travel, be moved, and/or otherwise be repositioned alongthe base plate at a plurality of positions. In even further aspects, inthe unlocked state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base isconfigured to move laterally along the base plate to a plurality ofpositions.

In further aspects, the least one securing means or securing componentmay comprise a plurality of securing means or securing components. Instill further aspects, the securing means or securing component may berotatably connected to at least one bracket post. In yet furtheraspects, a first securing means or securing component may be axiallyconnected to a first bracket post. In even further aspects, a secondsecuring means or securing component may be axially connected to asecond bracket post. In even further aspects, a connection axis of theleast one securing means or securing component may be offset with anaxis of the at least one hinge member, where the securing componentconnection axis and hinge member axis are coplanar along a horizontalplane orthogonal to the base plate. In still further aspects, a firstsecuring means or securing component may be coaxially connected to afirst end of a first hinge member, and a second securing means orsecuring component may be coaxially connected to a second opposed end ofthe first hinge member. In yet further aspects, he securing means orsecuring component may be connected to the bracket base and/or bracketpost and/or at least one hinge member. The securing means or securingcomponent may be connected using a fastener or the like.

In various embodiments, the system may comprise a plurality of auxiliaryvisor panels. In further aspects, the auxiliary visor panel or otheraccessory may be pivotably connected to the base plate assembly at asecond pivot or connection axis. In still further aspects, the auxiliaryvisor panel or other accessory may be pivotably connected to the baseplate assembly or articulating bracket using an accessory connector,connecting component, or other connecting means. In yet further aspects,the auxiliary visor panel or other accessory may be pivotably connectedto the base plate assembly using a hinge or joint.

In further aspects, the system may comprise a bracket body or hinge bodycomprising a first connection axis and a second connection axis. Thehinge body may comprise a first channel corresponding to a firstconnection axis and configured to receive the hinge member. The hingemember may be configured to rotate about the first connection axis. Instill further aspects, the hinge body may comprise a second channelcorresponding to a second connection axis and configured to couple withat least one accessory connector or other connecting means. The secondchannel of the hinge body may comprise a first opening and a secondopening, each opening configured to couple with one accessory connectoror connecting means. The accessory connector may be configured to rotateabout the second connection axis or may be fixedly connected.

In further aspects, an accessory connector or connecting means of thepresent disclosure may comprises a clip, clamp, hinge member, hingemechanism, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the accessoryconnector or connection means may comprise a clamping portion at a firstend and a coupling portion at a second end. The clamping portion may beconfigured to securing a portion of an auxiliary visor panel or otheraccessory to the clamping portion. In some aspects, the clamping portionmay comprise a slot configured for receiving and securing a portion ofan auxiliary visor panel or other accessory within the slot.

In further aspects, the coupling portion may be configured to couplewith the hinge body, the articulating bracket, another accessoryconnector, or a combination thereof. The coupling portion may beintegrated with the accessory connector or may be a separate elementthat is attached. In some embodiments, the coupling portion may comprisea protrusion, hinge member, damper component, or like componentconfigured to couple with the hinge body by inserting into a hinge bodychannel. For example, the coupling portion may be configured to couplewith the hinge body by inserting into a second channel at the second endof the hinge body for attaching a vehicle accessory, such as anauxiliary visor panel.

In some aspects, each accessory connector may comprise a plurality ofgrooves on an inner surface for receiving and retaining therein one ormore ball plungers or pegs extending from the hinge body. The pluralityof grooves of the accessory connector may be configured to releasablyretain one or more ball plungers or pegs for selectively securing thesecond end of the hinge body at a predetermined position along a secondrotational axis. In other aspects, the coupling portion may comprise arecessed portion at an outer end and an elevated portion positioned atan inner location from the recessed portion. The recessed portion maycomprise a plurality of detents; where a corresponding surface of aninner portion of the hinge body channel comprises a plurality ofdetents, the recessed portion detents being configured to interact withthe hinge body channel detents to maintain the accessory connector at afixed position. The recessed portion may also comprise one or morerelief cuts configured to allow the recessed portion detents to flexagainst the detents inside of the hinge body channel. To this end, asurface of an outer portion of the hinge body channel may comprisekeyway grooves corresponding to locations and quantity of detents on therecessed portion, and where the recessed portion detents and keywaygrooves are configured to cooperate to guide insertion of the protrusioninto the hinge body channel according to a predetermined orientation. Instill further aspects, the elevated portion may comprise a plurality ofdetents, where the elevated portion detents may be configured tocooperate with the keyway grooves in maintaining the accessory connectorat a fixed position. In other embodiments, an accessory connector maycomprise a coupling portion comprising a channel in place of theprotrusion. The coupling portion channel may be configured to couplewith another adjacent accessory connector, for example using a hingemember. In further aspects, the accessory connectors are coupled byinserting the hinge member in corresponding, coaxial channels ofadjacent accessory connectors.

In some aspects, the base plate may be substantially planar. In otheraspects, the base plate may comprise a void in the central portion. Infurther aspects, the base plate may comprise or otherwise take the formof a bracket. In still further aspects, the base plate may comprise asocket for receiving a pivot ball. In even further aspects, the baseplate may comprise a pivot ball joint. In yet further aspects, the voidin the central portion can comprise a socket for receiving a pivot ballconfigured to rotate about in the socket.

In further aspects, the base plate is releasably secured using asecuring means. In still further aspects, the base plate can bereleasably secured to a vehicle visor or roof. In yet further aspects,the base plate or bracket may comprise a plurality of securing means. Insome aspects, the base plate or bracket comprises a rectangular shape.In other aspects, the base plate or bracket comprises a triangularshape, and is configured to be secured to a corner of the vehicle visor.

In further aspects, the base plate may comprise at least one aperturefor receiving the securing means. In still further aspects, the basebracket may comprise a plurality of apertures for receiving the securingmeans. In yet further aspects, the base plate may comprise at least twoapertures for receiving a securing means, the apertures being containedwithin a base plate edge. In even further aspects, a first end of thesecuring means may be detachably connected to the base plate byextending through a first aperture from a first side of the base plateto a second side of the base plate, and by extending through a secondaperture from the second side of the base plate to the first side of thebase plate.

In further aspects, the base plate may comprise a first side and asecond side. In still further aspects, the first side of the base platemay be configured to be secured against a surface, such as, and withoutlimitation, against an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) visor. Inyet further aspects, the first side of the base plate may furthercomprise a gripping portion, such as, for example, to enhance gripagainst the surface to which it is secured. In even further aspects, thesecond side of the base plate may comprise a pivot ball joint. In someaspects, the first side of the base plate may comprise a grippingportion, such as, for example, to enhance grip against the surface towhich it is secured, and the second side of the base plate may comprisea pivot ball joint.

In further aspects, the device and system may further comprise anextendable member, the extendable member having first and second opposedends. In still further aspects, the extendable member may be connectedto the auxiliary panel at a first end. In yet further aspects, theextendable member may comprise an extension rod. In even furtheraspects, the extendable member may be connected to the auxiliary panelat a first end and may comprise an extension rod at a second end. Instill further aspects, the extendable member may comprise a flexibleportion at a first end and a rigid portion at a second end. In yetfurther aspects, the extension rod may be configured to telescope fromwithin the extendable member or an extendable member housing. In evenfurther aspects, at least a portion of the extendable member may beconfigured to be releasably secured to an OEM visor retention device orclip.

According to the various aspects described herein, the base plateassembly is configured to connect with at least one auxiliary paneland/or auxiliary accessory. In some embodiments, the base plate assemblyis configured to connect with at least one auxiliary panel. Theauxiliary panel may further comprise a glare shield movably connected tothe auxiliary visor panel. The glare shield is movably connected to theauxiliary visor panel using an accessory connector described above. Inother embodiments, the base plate assembly is configured to connect withat least one auxiliary accessory. The auxiliary accessory may compriseat least one of: a flat rectangular fan, Heads-Up-Projector (HUD), dashcamera, back up camera display, auxiliary rearview mirror for expandingviewable area, or a combination thereof, or the like. To this end,system would allow user to interchange an articulating bracket with anauxiliary visor panel configuration with another articulating bracketconnected to auxiliary accessor to fit their needs.

In further aspects, the auxiliary panel comprises at least one of: atleast one internal housing and at least one outer casing. In stillfurther aspects, the auxiliary panel comprises at least one internalhousing and at least one outer casing. In yet further aspects, theinternal housing may comprise a first internal housing panel and asecond internal housing panel.

In further aspects, the auxiliary visor panel can be pivotably connectedusing a connecting means. In even further aspects, the auxiliary visorpanel can be pivotably connected using a pivot ball joint, or the like.In various aspects, the auxiliary visor panel can work with existingvehicle visor to extend the range of shading or blocking of sun. Forexample, in some aspects, the auxiliary visor panel can be pivotallymounted to a vehicle visor such that it can pivot downwardly and awayfrom the primary visor without encroaching in the user's space when thevehicle visor is in the side window position.

In further aspects, the pivot ball joint can comprise a pivot ball witha pin extending therefrom, a socket for receiving said ball, and a coverplate for securing the pivot ball in the socket. In even furtheraspects, the pivot ball can provide motion to the auxiliary visor. Instill further aspects, the cover plate comprises guide slots configuredto receive the pin and control the motion of the auxiliary visor panel.

In various aspects, the cover plate can be configured to allow theauxiliary visor panel to move to a predetermined position. In furtheraspects, the pivot ball joint can also comprise a retaining meansconfigured to hold the auxiliary visor panel in a predeterminedposition, for example, by adding friction at the pivot ball connection.In still further aspects, the retaining means can comprise a frictionfitting, snap ring, O-ring, pressure fitting, clip, clasp, and the like.In even further aspects, the snap ring or O-ring can be retained withina groove to accommodate the snap ring or O-ring.

In father aspects, the retaining means may comprise an adjustment knobor member. In still further aspects, the adjustment knob or member mayinclude at least one of a clamping arm and clamping face. In yet furtheraspects, the adjustment knob or member may be configured to control themotion of the auxiliary visor panel by adjusting the adjustment knob ormember towards and away from the pivot ball. In even further aspects,the adjustment knob or member may be configured to prevent motion of theauxiliary visor panel by screwing the adjustment knob or member towardsthe pivot ball. In still further aspects, the adjustment knob or membermay be configured to allow motion of the auxiliary visor panel byscrewing the adjustment knob or member away from the pivot ball. In yetfurther aspects, the adjustment knob or member may be configured tocontrol the motion of the auxiliary visor panel by tightening a clampingface of the adjustment knob or member against the pivot ball. In evenfurther aspects, the adjustment knob or member may be configured toprevent movement of the auxiliary visor panel by tightening a clampingface of the adjustment knob or member against the pivot ball. In stillfurther aspects, the adjustment knob or member may be configured to fixthe auxiliary visor panel position by tightening a clamping face of theadjustment knob or member against the pivot ball. In some aspects, aclamping face of the adjustment knob or member may have an arcuate shapesubstantially matching the shape of the pivot ball. In other aspects, aclamping face of the adjustment knob or member may have an arcuate shapeidentically matching the shape of the outer portion of pivot ball.

In further aspects, the cover plate can be configured to allow theauxiliary visor panel to move to a plurality of predetermined positions.In still further aspects, the cover plate can be configured to allow theauxiliary visor panel to move from a first predetermined position to asecond predetermined position or a third predetermined position, or anycombination thereof. In yet further aspects, the predetermined positioncan comprise a stowed position against the vehicle visor, a side windowposition, or an extended position against the windshield, or anycombination thereof.

In further aspects, the auxiliary visor panel can comprise a cavity orvoid for receiving the glare shield. In some aspects, the glare shieldcan be slidably connected to the auxiliary visor panel. In otheraspects, the glare shield can be pivotably connected to the auxiliaryvisor panel. In still further aspects, the glare shield can be connectedusing a connecting means. In yet further aspects, the glare shield canbe configured to extend from the auxiliary visor panel to reduce glareor bright light when the auxiliary visor panel is a raised position. Inyet further aspects, the system can comprise a button or other releasemechanism configured to release a component, such as, for example, theglare shield from a secured position.

In various aspects, the base plate may comprise at least one securingmeans configured to be secured to first portion of a vehicle visor; andthe auxiliary panel may also comprise at least one securing meansconfigured to be secured to a second portion of a vehicle visor. Infurther aspects, the at least one securing means of the auxiliary panelcomprises a magnet and corresponding magnetic element, the magnet beingconfigured to magnetically couple with the corresponding magneticelement. In still further aspects, at least a portion of the auxiliarysecuring means may be disposed within the auxiliary panel. In yetfurther aspects, the magnet may be disposed within the auxiliary panel.In even further aspects, the magnet may be disposed within the internalhousing of the auxiliary panel. In still further aspects, the magnet maybe disposed within the internal housing of the auxiliary panel and thecorresponding magnetic element is disposed on a surface of or within avehicle visor, such as an OEM visor. In various further aspects, themagnetic element may comprise a metal plate, or other magnetic plate.

In further aspects, the base plate can comprise a plurality of securingor connecting means, such as, and without limitation, VELCRO at oneportion and a clamping mechanism on another portion of the base plate.In still further aspects, the base plate can comprise a securing meansfor releasably securing the auxiliary visor panel to the base plate. Inyet further aspects, the base plate can have a rectangular, arcuate,V-shaped, oval, round, or cylindrical shape.

In further aspects, the glare shield can be comprised of an UV-reducingand/or glare-reducing material, or a combination thereof. In stillfurther aspects, the glare shield can be comprised of an opaque,micro-louver, transparent, tinted, translucent, polarized, phototropic,electrochromic, fabric, cloth, plastic, woven or non-woven, natural orsynthetic material, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the glareshield can comprise a tinted acrylic panel.

In further aspects, disclosed herein are visor systems comprising: atleast one base bracket configured to be releasably secured to a portionof a vehicle, the base bracket comprising a plurality of securing meansconfigured to be secured to a plurality of portions of the vehiclevisor; at least one auxiliary visor panel pivotably connected to thebase bracket using a pivot ball joint; wherein the pivot ball jointcomprises a pivot ball with a pin extending therefrom, a magnetic socketfor receiving said ball, and a retaining means for securing the pivotball in the socket; and a glare shield movably connected to theauxiliary visor panel.

In further aspects, the disclosed visor systems, and portions thereof,may be installed as OEM equipment in vehicles. For example, in someaspects, the base plate or base bracket may be present as an OEM vehiclepart, and the auxiliary visor panel may be configured to be attached tothe OEM part by inserting the pivot ball in the socket. In still furtheraspects, the visor system can comprise at least one auxiliary visorpanel configured to be pivotably connected to a portion of a vehicleroof or visor using a pivot ball joint; wherein the pivot ball jointcomprises a pivot ball with a pin extending therefrom, a socket ormagnetic socket for receiving said ball, and a retaining means forsecuring the pivot ball in the socket; and a glare shield movablyconnected to the auxiliary visor panel. In other aspects, the base platemay be an OEM vehicle visor comprising a socket for receiving the pivotball, and the auxiliary visor panel sold separately, such as a dealerinstalled option, and is configured to be attached by inserting thepivot ball in the OEM installed socket.

In various aspects, the securing means comprises a clip, clamp, latch,bracket, snap, fitting, clasp, Velcro, strap, tie wraps, hook and latch,loop and tie, cable, elastic, band, button and buttonholes, orcombinations thereof. In further aspects, the connecting means comprisesa hinge or similar connecting mechanism. In further aspects, thecomponents can be releasably connected. In a still further aspect, theconnection can be achieved using a snap, friction fitting, snap ring,O-ring, pressure fitting, clip, clasp, and the like. The snap ring orO-ring can be retained within a groove to accommodate the snap ring orO-ring. In a further aspect, the system can comprise an engagement meansfor coupling and holding components together. In a further aspect, theengagement means can be a screwing mechanism, a click-lock mechanism, orfriction mechanism, or the like. In other aspects, the connecting meanscan comprise a fitting, insert, adhesive, tape, screw, snap fit, glue,brazing, soldering, welding, spot weld, screw with nut, or rivet, or acombination thereof.

In further aspects, the system may comprise first and second auxiliaryvisor panels that flushly nest with the other components when in aclosed position. In still further aspects, the base plate can berotatably connected to a first edge of the first auxiliary visor panel,and the second auxiliary visor panel is rotatably connected to adifferent edge of the first auxiliary visor panel. The second auxiliaryvisor panel may be nestably connected to the first auxiliary visorpanel, and the second auxiliary visor panel comprises a first edgeconfigured to releasably couple with a first auxiliary visor panel edgeand a second edge configured to releasably couple with a base plateedge. In even further aspects, a first auxiliary visor panel maycomprise three edges that define a portion of a cavity for receiving aportion of the second auxiliary visor panel. In even further aspects,one surface of the base plate may comprise an elevation portion and arecessed portion, the recessed portion being configured to nestablyreceive at least a portion of the first auxiliary visor panel, and theelevated portion of the base plate and the cavity of the first auxiliaryvisor panel forming a substantially planar surface when in the nestingposition. In further aspects, the system may comprise a support clipconfigured to releasably secure a portion of the auxiliary visor paneladjacent to a portion of the vehicle visor, and a glare shield movablyconnected to the auxiliary visor panel.

According to various aspects, embodiments of the present inventionprovide a number of advantages over prior solutions. Without wishing tobe bound by a particular theory, in one aspect, the combination ofinventive base plate and articulating bracket connecting configurations,and/or securement devices allow the disclosed system to be used innumerous positions and with numerous vehicle accessories. In furtheraspects, embodiments of the present system eliminate the need touninstall your existing vehicle visor and/or replace the hinges andmounts before installing a double visor which won't fit most vehicles aswell as the original visor. In still further aspects, embodiments of thedisclosed system do not attach to the OEM car visor, and, thus, canprovide independent multi-direction glare or sun blocking. By way ofnon-limiting example, Sun glare may first appear through windshield, butwhen you turn the sun glare then comes through the side window. A drivermust keep moving the OEM car visor to block the sun glare while driving,which can be a dangerous distraction. In even further aspects and asfurther described herein, the present invention solves this problem byallowing the driver to independently position the system and the OEM carvisor to concurrently block glare through the windshield and the sidewindow at the same time. In contrast, multi-direction glare blocking isnot possible with flip down auxiliary visors that attach to the OEM carvisor. In yet further aspects, the disclosed system can be used in anyvehicle, including trucks, recreational vehicles, golf carts,all-terrain vehicles, tractors, construction vehicles, and boats. Asdescribed herein, the disclosed system can be installed with a few quicksteps in under 2 minutes. Further, the bracket can easily unlock and bemoved to another car as needed.

C. Accessory Device and System Configuration

According to various aspects of the invention, the shading devices andsystems can comprise multiple configurations. Various exemplaryembodiments of the inventive visor devices and systems and methods forusing same are shown in FIGS. 1-10.

In further aspects, FIGS. 1A-1E show various views and perspectives ofan exemplary accessory system 100 and components in accordance with thepresent invention. As shown, system 100 comprises base plate assemblycomprising base plate 112 and articulating bracket assembly 101, wherebase plate 112 is configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of avehicle and articulating bracket assembly 101 is configured to bereleasably secured to the base plate, which can be at a plurality oflocations along the base plate. Auxiliary visor panel 116 is connectedto the base plate assembly and bracket using main accessory connector114. Glare shield 124 is attached to panel accessory connector 118 usingfastening or connecting means in the form of screws 126, and is movablyconnected to auxiliary visor panel 116 using panel accessory connector118 and shield accessory connector 122. Base plate 112 can be attachedusing adhesive backing 111.

Bracket assembly 101 includes bracket base 102, hinge body 119, a dampermember 106 configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and hingebody at first mounting axis, a pair of bracket posts 104 configured tosecure an end of the damper member, and two position locks 108 rotatablyconnected to bracket posts using position lock screw 109. Position lockconnection axis and first mounting axis are coplanar along a horizontalplane orthogonal to the base plate. Bracket base 102 comprises a grooveand base plate 112 comprises a tongue or groove, and the bracket basegroove and base plate tongue cooperate to releasably secure bracket baseagainst base plate in a fixed position using one or both position locks108. Base plate rail comprises a recessed portion; and position lock isconfigured to extend through an opening within bracket base 102 tocooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracketbase 102 (and all components connected thereto) to base plate 112 in afixed position. One or both position locks 108 may be used securebracket base 102 to base plate 112, depending on specific position ofthe bracket base 102 on the base plate 112.

Bracket posts 104 on base bracket 102 comprise a plurality of grooves104 a arranged in a circle on an inner surface for receiving andretaining therein ball plungers 121 which are either extending from orare installed in the side hinge body, near hinge body channels thatreceive damper members. The plurality of grooves are configured toreleasably retain ball plungers for selectively securing the first endof the hinge body at a predetermined position along a first rotationalaxis. Accessory connector 114 also have a plurality of grooves 114 a onan inner surface for receiving and retaining therein ball plungers 121extending from the other end of the hinge body. The plurality of groovesof the accessory connector are also configured to releasably retain thetwo ball plungers for selectively securing the second end of the hingebody at a predetermined position along a second rotational axis.

In further aspects, FIGS. 2A-6B show various views and perspectives ofan exemplary accessory system 200 and components in accordance with thepresent invention. As shown, system 200 comprises base plate assemblycomprising base plate 212 and articulating bracket assembly 201, wherebase plate 212 is configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of avehicle and articulating bracket assembly 201 is configured to bereleasably secured to the base plate 212, which can be at a plurality oflocations along the base plate. Auxiliary visor panel 216 is connectedto the base plate assembly and bracket using main accessory connector214; and glare shield 224 is attached to panel accessory connector 218using screws 226, and is movably connected to auxiliary visor panel 216using panel accessory connector 218 and shield accessory connector 222.

FIGS. 3A-3D show various views of an embodiment of articulating bracketassembly 201 comprising bracket base 202, hinge body 219, first hingemember 206 configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and hingebody at first mounting axis, a pair of bracket post 204 configured tosecure an end of the hinge member, and two position locks 208 rotatablyconnected to bracket posts using position lock screw 209. A connectionaxis of position lock 208 is offset with first mounting axis of firsthinge member, position lock connection axis and first mounting axis arecoplanar along a horizontal plane orthogonal to the base plate. Bracketbase 202 comprises a groove 203 and base plate 212 comprises rail 212 a,and the bracket base groove and base plate rail 212 a cooperate toreleasably secure bracket base against base plate in a fixed positionusing one or both position locks 208. Base plate rail 212 a comprises arecessed portion; and position lock 208 is configured to extend throughan opening 205 within bracket base 202 to cooperate with the recessedportion 213 to releasably secure the bracket base 202 (and allcomponents connected thereto) to base plate 212 in a fixed position. Oneor both position locks 208 may be used secure bracket base 202 to baseplate 212, depending on the length of base plate 212 and the specificposition of the bracket base 202 on the base plate 212. To the end, andwhile base plate 212 is show as having as substantially similar length(or width) as bracket base 202, this is not a requirement. Base plate212 can be any desired length to allow for position along extended areasof the car, for example, from the driver's side all the way over to thepassenger's side. In further aspects, system and bracket assembly 201can comprise a locked state and an unlocked state. As shown in FIGS. 3Aand 3C, in the unlocked state, bracket base is configured to isconfigured to move laterally along the base plate to a plurality ofpositions. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 3D, in the locked state, bracketbase 202 is secured to the base plate 212 in a fixed position.

As shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, hinge body 219 may include hinge body cover217, and hinge body 219 may be further configured to rotatably connectto bracket base using hinge member 206 at first mounting axis located ata first end of hinge body; and auxiliary visor panel 216 (or some otheraccessory) is configured to rotatably connect to hinge body 219 usingmain accessory connectors 214 at a second positioning axis located atthe opposed second end of hinge body. The second channel of hinge bodycomprises first and second openings, each opening configured to couplewith one main accessory connector 214. As shown in FIGS. 5A-6B, hingebody 219 may comprises a first channel corresponding to first mountingaxis and configured to receive hinge member 206, and wherein the hingemember is configured to rotate about the first mounting axis; and asecond channel corresponding to a second positioning axis and configuredto couple main accessory connectors 214. Main accessory connector 214comprises a clamping portion 214 a at a first end and a coupling portion214 b at a second end. Clamping portion may configured for securing aportion of an auxiliary visor panel (or another accessory) to theclamping portion, and may include a slot configured for receiving andsecuring a portion of an auxiliary visor panel (or other accessory)within the slot. Coupling portion comprises a shaft configured to couplewith the hinge body by inserting into the second channel of the hingebody. Shaft may further include a recessed portion at an outer end andan elevated portion positioned at an inner location from the recessedportion. Recessed portion may comprise a plurality of detents, while acorresponding surface of an inner portion of the hinge body channel alsocomprises a plurality of detents; and wherein the recessed portiondetents are configured to interact with the hinge body channel detentsto maintain main accessory connector 214 at a fixed position. Recessedportion of main accessory connector 214 may further comprises one ormore relief cuts configured to allow the recessed portion detents toflex against the detents inside of the hinge body channel. A surface ofan outer portion of the second channel of hinge body may include one ormore keyway grooves corresponding to locations and quantity of detentson the recessed portion of main accessory connector shaft. The recessedportion detents on the shaft and keyway grooves are configured tocooperate to guide insertion of the shaft into the hinge body channelaccording to a predetermined orientation.

FIGS. 7-9 show additional views and auxiliary visor panel 116, glareshield 124, and different connectors employed in system 100. As shown inFIGS. 7-9, auxiliary visor panel 116 and glare shield 124 may be movablyconnected to one another using visor accessory connector 118 and shieldaccessory connector 122. Visor accessory connector 118 and shieldaccessory connector 122 each may comprise a clamping portion in the formof a slot configured for receiving and securing a portion of auxiliaryvisor panel or glare shield (or other accessory) within the slot, and acoupling portion in the form of a channel configured to couple withanother accessory connector using accessory hinge pin 120 or the like.In various embodiments, accessory connectors may be configured to coupleby inserting accessory hinge pin 120 in corresponding, coaxial channelsof adjacent accessory connectors. In some embodiments, auxiliary visorpanel or glare shield (or other accessory) may be secured to anaccessory connector using a fastener, such as glare shield 124 beingsecured to shield accessory connector 122 using screw 126.

D. Accessory Device and System Operation and Methods for Making andUsing

As described herein, also disclosed are various methods of using thedisclosed devices and systems. For example, in another exemplary aspect,the present disclosure provides a method for using a disclosed system ina vehicle to provide glare protection. FIG. 10 is a flow chart settingforth the general stages involved in a method 1000 consistent with anembodiment of the disclosure for operating the disclosed devices andsystems. Method 1000 may be implemented using, at least in part, system100 or 200 as described in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 1A-9.Furthermore, although stages are disclosed with reference to system 100or 200, it should be understood that a plurality of other components mayenable the operation of method 1000, including, but not limited to,other device mechanisms, mechanical components, environment properties(e.g., vehicle location and surface), user conditions, and the like.Further still, although the stages illustrated by the flow charts aredisclosed in a particular order, it should be understood that the orderis disclosed for illustrative purposes only. Stages may be combined,separated, reordered, and various intermediary stages may exist.Accordingly, it should be understood that the various stages illustratedwithin the flow chart may be, in various embodiments, performed inarrangements that differ from the ones illustrated. Moreover, variousstages may be added or removed from the flow charts without altering ordeterring from the fundamental scope of the depicted methods and systemsdisclosed herein.

Method 1000 may begin at starting block 1005 and proceed to stage 1010,where the base plate may be secured to a site of a vehicle. By way ofnon-limiting example, the user may determine where to install the baseplate (i.e., the center of the windshield between the left edge and therear-view mirror), clean the installation area (i.e., windshield), andattach the base plate, for example, by using adhesive backing 111 on thebase plate 112. From stage 1010, where the base plate is installed inthe vehicle, method 1000 may proceed to stage 1020 where thearticulating bracket may be coupled to the base plate and secured to thebase plate at a desired position using one or more position locks. Thecoupling orientation and operation of device components, thoughdisclosed in a particular order for illustrative purposes, may occur inother arrangements. For example, the position locks may be rotated tounlocked position such that the articulating bracket can be slid ontothe base plate and positioned for best sun glare blocking. The positionlocks can them be rotated to the locked position to secure thearticulating bracket in place. In further aspects, an advantage of theinvention can be that it allows a user to couple the articulatingbracket in a first orientation where the glare shield is facing down orcouple the articulating bracket in a second orientation where the glareshield is facing down by rotating the articulating bracket 180 degrees.As described herein, each coupling method provides various operationalfunctionalities and positional cooperativities with OEM vehicle parts,such as the OEM visor.

From stage 1020, where the articulating bracket has been secured to thebase plate, method 1000 may proceed to stage 1030, where the user maythen reposition the auxiliary visor and/or glare shield from a stowedaway position to a number of other positions depending on the desiredglare protection. By way of non-limiting example, from the stowed awayposition, the auxiliary visor may be rotated forward against thewindshield to block forward glare, such as high glare. In furtheraspects, from the stowed away position, just the translucent glareshield can be rotated down to provide a maximum viewing area throughwhich the user can view the driving environment. In still furtheraspects, from the stowed away position, the auxiliary visor may berotated forward against the windshield and the translucent glare shieldconnected to the auxiliary visor can be rotated against the windshieldtoo. Both the auxiliary visor and glare shield may be moved back fromthe windshield, such as to block lower glare. In various furtheraspects, the present system can cooperate with OEM visors to provideglare protection in multiple directions. From the stowed away position,the auxiliary visor may be rotated forward against the windshield toblock forward glare and the OEM car visor can be rotated to the side toblock side glare. In this configuration, it is unlikely for the userwill to need to flip or move any visors while driving for distractionfree driving. In still further aspects, the translucent glare shieldconnected to the auxiliary visor can also be rotated against thewindshield. For example, the system can be deployed in a manyconfigurations to provide multi directional glare protection to preventflipping the OEM car visor back and forth when driving. Additionaldeployment configurations include one or more of: blocking front sunglare by flipping down the solid auxiliary visor; positioning the OEMcar visor to the window to block side glare; using the glare shield,which may optionally be tinted and/or polarized, directly in your lineof sight like sunglasses; using both the glare shield and the solidauxiliary visor together fully extended when the sun is low in the skyor reflecting off snow or water; and combinations thereof.

From stage 1030, where the device is used to provide glare protection,method 1000 may proceed to stage 1040, where the user returns theauxiliary visor and glare shield can be returned to the stowed awayposition. After stage 1040, method 1000 may end at stage 1050. Infurther aspects, a user may follow various steps of method 1000 to movearticulating bracket between vehicles by uncoupling the articulatingbracket from a first base plate installed in a first care and couplingthe articulating bracket to a second base plate installed in a secondvehicle.

The present invention includes at least the following aspects:

-   Aspect 1: A vehicle visor system, the system comprising:    an articulating bracket configured to releasably secured to a    portion of a vehicle, and    at least one auxiliary visor panel releasably connected to the    articulating bracket.-   Aspect 2: A vehicle accessory system, the system comprising:    an articulating bracket configured to releasably secured to a    portion of a vehicle; and at least one accessory connected to the    articulating bracket.-   Aspect 3: A vehicle accessory connection system comprising:    an articulating bracket configured to be releasably secured to the    vehicle, the articulating bracket configured to connect with at    least one vehicle accessory.-   Aspect 4: A vehicle accessory system, the system comprising:    a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and an articulating    bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a    portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be    detachably couple with the base plate for securing to the vehicle,    articulating bracket configured to be secured at a plurality of    locations along the base plate; and    at least one auxiliary visor panel or accessory connected to the    base plate assembly.-   Aspect 5: A vehicle visor system, the system comprising:    a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and an articulating    bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a    portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be    detachably couple with the base plate for securing to the vehicle,    articulating bracket configured to be secured at a plurality of    locations along the base plate; and    at least one auxiliary visor panel connected to the base plate    assembly.-   Aspect 6: A vehicle accessory connection system comprising:    a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and an articulating    bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a    portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be    releasably secured to the vehicle using the base plate at a    plurality of locations along the base plate; and    wherein the articulating bracket is configured to connect with at    least one auxiliary visor panel or vehicle accessory.-   Aspect 7: A vehicle accessory connection system comprising:    a base plate;    an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly    secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket    configured to be releasably secured to the vehicle using the base    plate at a plurality of locations along the base plate; and    wherein the articulating bracket is configured to connect with at    least one vehicle accessory.-   Aspect 8: The system of aspect 1, 2, or 3, further comprising a base    plate configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle,    wherein the articulating bracket configured to be detachably coupled    with the base plate for securing to the vehicle, the articulating    bracket configured to be secured at a plurality of locations along    the base plate.-   Aspect 9: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    articulating bracket is configured to interchangeably connect with a    plurality of auxiliary visor panels and/or vehicle accessories.-   Aspect 10: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    articulating bracket comprises a bracket base, a hinge body, and at    least one hinge member or mechanism configured to pivotably connect    the bracket base and hinge body at a first pivot axis or connection    axis.-   Aspect 11: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    articulating bracket comprises a second hinge member or mechanism    configured to pivotably connect the hinge body and a visor panel or    vehicle accessory at a second pivot axis or connection axis.-   Aspect 12: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    articulating bracket comprises a bracket base, a hinge body, a first    hinge member configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and    hinge body at a first pivot axis or connection axis, and a second    hinge member configured to pivotably connect the hinge body and a    visor panel or vehicle accessory at a second pivot axis or    connection axis.-   Aspect 13: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    visor panel is configured to releasably connect to the articulating    bracket at a second pivot axis or connection axis.-   Aspect 14: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base is configured to connect at a first pivot axis of the    articulating bracket; and wherein an auxiliary visor panel or other    vehicle accessory is configured to connect to the articulating    bracket at a second pivot axis.-   Aspect 15: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base is configured to connect at a first connection axis of the    articulating bracket; and wherein an auxiliary visor panel or other    accessory is configured to connect to the articulating bracket at a    second connection axis.-   Aspect 16: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base is configured to connect at a first pivot axis of the    articulating bracket using a first hinge mechanism; and    wherein an auxiliary visor panel or other vehicle accessory is    configured to connect to the articulating bracket at a second pivot    axis using a second hinge mechanism.-   Aspect 17: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    body comprises first and second opposed ends, said hinge body being    configured to rotatably connect to the bracket base at a first pivot    axis located at a first end of the hinge body; and wherein an    auxiliary visor panel or other accessory is configured to rotatably    connect to the hinge body at a second pivot axis located at an    opposed second end of the hinge body.-   Aspect 18: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    body is configured to rotatably connect to the bracket base at a    first connection axis located at a first end of the hinge body; and    wherein an auxiliary visor panel or other accessory is configured to    connect to the hinge body at a second connection axis located at an    opposed second end of the hinge body.-   Aspect 19: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first end    of the hinge body comprises a mount hinge mechanism configured to    rotatably connect to the bracket base; and    wherein the opposed second end of the hinge body comprises a    position hinge mechanism configured to connect to and position an    auxiliary visor panel or other accessory.-   Aspect 20: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base comprises one or more bracket posts, each bracket post    configured to secure an end of the hinge member.-   Aspect 21: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein each bracket    post and hinge body end comprise an aperture dimensioned and shaped    to receive and secure an end of the hinge member.-   Aspect 22: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    articulating bracket is releasably secured to the base plate in a    fixed position using at least one securing component or securing    means.-   Aspect 23: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base is releasably secured to the base plate in a fixed position    using at least one securing means or securing component.-   Aspect 24: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base comprises a groove and the base plate comprises a tongue, and    wherein the bracket base groove and base plate tongue cooperate to    releasably secure the base plate assembly and/or bracket base in a    fixed position using at least one securing component.-   Aspect 25: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base comprises a groove and the base plate comprises a tongue, and    wherein the bracket base groove and base plate tongue cooperate to    releasably secure the bracket base against the base plate in a fixed    position using at least one securing component.-   Aspect 26: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base groove, base plate tongue, and the securing component cooperate    to releasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixed position.-   Aspect 27: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the bracket    base groove, base plate tongue, and the securing component cooperate    to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate in a fixed    position.-   Aspect 28: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate tongue comprises a recessed portion, groove or slot; and    wherein the securing component is configured to cooperate with the    recessed portion or slot to releasably secure the bracket base to    the base plate in a fixed position.-   Aspect 29: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the top    portion of the base plate tongue comprises a recessed portion,    groove or slot; and wherein the securing component is configured to    cooperate with the recessed portion or slot to releasably secure the    base plate assembly in a fixed position.-   Aspect 30: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate tongue comprises a recessed portion or slot; and wherein the    securing component is configured to extend through an opening within    the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portion or slot to    releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate in a fixed    position.-   Aspect 31: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate tongue comprises a recessed portion or slot; and wherein the    securing component is configured to extend through an opening within    the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portion or slot to    releasably secure the base plate assembly in a fixed position.-   Aspect 32: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate assembly and/or bracket base comprise a locked state and an    unlocked state.-   Aspect 33: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein in the locked    state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base is secured to the    base plate in a fixed position.-   Aspect 34: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein in the    unlocked state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base is    configured to travel along the base plate to a plurality of    positions.-   Aspect 35: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein in the    unlocked state, the base plate assembly and/or bracket base is    configured to move laterally along the base plate to a plurality of    positions.-   Aspect 36: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the least one    securing means or securing component comprises a plurality of    securing means or securing components.-   Aspect 37: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    one securing means or securing component is rotatably connected to    at least one bracket post.-   Aspect 38: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a first    securing means or securing component is axially connected to a first    bracket post.-   Aspect 39: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a second    securing means or securing component is axially connected to a    second opposed end of a first hinge member.-   Aspect 40: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a connection    axis of the least one securing means or securing component is offset    with an axis of the at least one hinge member;    and wherein the securing component connection axis and hinge member    axis are coplanar along a horizontal plane orthogonal to the base    plate.-   Aspect 41: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a first    securing means or securing component is coaxial connected to a first    end of a first hinge member, and a second securing means or securing    component is coaxial connected to a second opposed end of the first    hinge member.-   Aspect 42: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the securing    means or securing component is connected using a fastener or the    like.-   Aspect 43: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the securing    means or securing component is connected to the bracket base and/or    bracket post and/or at least one hinge member using a fastener or    the like.-   Aspect 44: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the securing    means or securing component is comprises a position lock or the    like.-   Aspect 45: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein an auxiliary    visor panel or other accessory is pivotably connected to the base    plate assembly at a second pivot or connection axis.-   Aspect 46: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein an auxiliary    visor panel or other accessory is pivotably connected to the base    plate assembly or articulating bracket using an accessory connector,    accessory coupling, connecting component, or other connecting means.-   Aspect 47: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    visor panel or other accessory is pivotably connected to the base    plate assembly using a coupling, hinge or joint, or the like.-   Aspect 48: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    body comprises a first connection axis and a second connection axis.-   Aspect 49: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    body comprises a first channel corresponding to a first connection    axis and configured to receive the hinge member.-   Aspect 50: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    member is configured to rotate about the first connection axis.-   Aspect 51: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    body comprises a second channel corresponding to a second connection    axis and configured to couple with at least one accessory connector.-   Aspect 52: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    channel of the hinge body comprise a first opening and a second    opening, each opening configured to couple with one accessory    connector.-   Aspect 53: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    one accessory connector is configured to rotate about the second    connection axis.-   Aspect 54: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    one accessory connector comprises a clip, coupling, clamp, hinge    member, or a combination thereof.-   Aspect 55: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    one accessory connector comprises a clamping portion at a first end    and a coupling portion at a second end.-   Aspect 56: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the clamping    portion is configured for securing a portion of an auxiliary visor    panel or other accessory to the clamping portion.-   Aspect 57: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the clamping    portion comprises a slot configured for receiving and securing a    portion of an auxiliary visor panel or other accessory within the    slot.-   Aspect 58: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    portion is configured to couple with the hinge body, the    articulating bracket, another accessory connector, or a combination    thereof.-   Aspect 59: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    portion comprises a shaft, member, damper or protrusion configured    to couple with the hinge body by inserting into a hinge body channel    and/or accessory connecter.-   Aspect 60: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    portion comprises a shaft, damper or protrusion configured to couple    with the hinge body by inserting into the second channel of the    hinge body.-   Aspect 61: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein each bracket    post comprises a plurality of grooves on an inner surface for    receiving and retaining therein one or more ball plungers or pegs    extending from the hinge body.-   Aspect 62: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the plurality    of grooves is configured to releasably retain one or more ball    plungers or pegs for selectively securing the first end of the hinge    body at a predetermined position along a first rotational axis.-   Aspect 63: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein each    accessory connector comprises a plurality of grooves on an inner    surface for receiving and retaining therein one or more ball    plungers or pegs extending from the hinge body.-   Aspect 64: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the plurality    of grooves of the accessory connector is configured to releasably    retain one or more ball plungers or pegs for selectively securing    the second end of the hinge body at a predetermined position along a    second rotational axis.-   Aspect 65: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the shaft or    protrusion comprises a recessed portion at an outer end and an    elevated portion positioned at an inner location from the recessed    portion.-   Aspect 66: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the recessed    portion comprises a plurality of detents; wherein a corresponding    surface of an inner portion of the hinge body channel comprises a    plurality of detents; and wherein the recessed portion detents are    configured to interact with the hinge body channel detents to    maintain the accessory connector at a fixed position.-   Aspect 67: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the recessed    portion comprises one or more relief cuts configured to allow the    recessed portion detents to flex against the detents inside of the    hinge body channel.-   Aspect 68: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a surface of    an outer portion of the hinge body channel comprises keyway grooves    corresponding to locations and quantity of detents on the recessed    portion; and wherein the recessed portion detents and keyway grooves    are configured to cooperate to guide insertion of the shaft or    protrusion into the hinge body channel according to a predetermined    orientation.-   Aspect 69: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the elevated    portion comprises a plurality of detents; and wherein the elevated    portion detents are configured to cooperate with the keyway grooves    in maintaining the accessory connector at a fixed position.-   Aspect 70: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    portion comprises a channel configured to couple with another    accessory connector using a hinge member; wherein the accessory    connectors are coupled by inserting the hinge member in    corresponding, coaxial channels of adjacent accessory connectors.-   Aspect 71: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the hinge    member comprises a mount axle, mount pin, or the like.-   Aspect 72: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising a    glare shield movably connected to the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 73: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is movably connected to the auxiliary visor panel using an    accessory connector.-   Aspect 74: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    accessory comprises at least one of: a flat rectangular fan,    Heads-Up-Projector (HUD), dash camera, back up camera display,    auxiliary rear view mirror for expanding viewable area, or a    combination thereof, or the like.-   Aspect 75: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising a    glare shield movably connected to the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 76: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is movably connected to the auxiliary visor panel using an    accessory connector.-   Aspect 77: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    accessory comprises at least one of: a flat rectangular fan,    Heads-Up-Projector (HUD), dash camera, back up camera display,    auxiliary rear view mirror for expanding viewable area, or a    combination thereof, or the like.-   Aspect 78: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising a    plurality of base plates or brackets.-   Aspect 79: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising a    plurality of auxiliary visor panels.-   Aspect 80: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is releasably secured using a securing means.-   Aspect 81: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is releasably secured to a vehicle visor or roof.-   Aspect 82: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is releasably secured using a securing means.-   Aspect 83: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises at least one aperture for receiving the securing    means.-   Aspect 84: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a plurality of apertures for receiving the securing    means.-   Aspect 85: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is releasably secured to a vehicle visor or roof.-   Aspect 86: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a triangular shape, and is configured to be secured    to a corner of the vehicle visor.-   Aspect 87: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a plurality of securing means.-   Aspect 88: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    visor panel is pivotably connected using a connecting means.-   Aspect 89: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    visor panel further comprises a securing means configured to    releasably secure a portion of the auxiliary visor panel to a    vehicle visor or roof.-   Aspect 90: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the auxiliary    visor panel is pivotably connected using a pivot ball joint, or the    like.-   Aspect 91: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the pivot    ball joint comprises a pivot ball with a pin extending therefrom, a    socket for receiving said ball, and a cover plate for securing the    pivot ball in the socket.-   Aspect 92: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the pivot    ball joint comprises a pivot ball with a pin extending therefrom, a    magnetic socket for receiving said ball, and a retaining means for    securing the pivot ball in the socket.-   Aspect 93: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the pivot    ball pin comprises a mounting portion configured to connect with the    auxiliary panel.-   Aspect 94: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the cover    plate comprises at least one guide slot configured to receive the    pin and control the motion of the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 95: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the cover    plate comprises a plurality of guide slots configured to control the    motion of the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 96: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the cover    plate is configured to allow the auxiliary visor panel to move to a    predetermined position.-   Aspect 97: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the pivot    ball joint comprises a retaining means configured to hold the    auxiliary visor panel in a predetermined position.-   Aspect 98: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the retaining    means is configured to Aspect 99: The system of any preceding    aspect, wherein the cover plate is configured to allow the auxiliary    visor panel to move to a plurality of predetermined positions.-   Aspect 100: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the cover    plate is configured to allow the auxiliary visor panel to move from    a first predetermined position to a second predetermined position or    a third predetermined position.-   Aspect 101: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is in operative communication with the socket and    configured to control the motion of the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 102: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is configured to control the motion of the ball.-   Aspect 103: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is further configured to allow the auxiliary visor    panel to move to a predetermined position.-   Aspect 104: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is further configured to hold the auxiliary visor    panel in a predetermined position.-   Aspect 105: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is configured to allow the auxiliary visor panel to    move to a plurality of predetermined positions.-   Aspect 106: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means is configured to allow the auxiliary visor panel to    move from a first predetermined position to a second predetermined    position or a third predetermined position.-   Aspect 107: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    predetermined position comprises a stowed position against the    vehicle visor, a side window position, or an extended position    against the windshield.-   Aspect 108: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising    first and second auxiliary visor panels.-   Aspect 109: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first    auxiliary visor panel is rotatably connected to at least a portion    of the base plate or second auxiliary visor panel, or a combination    thereof.-   Aspect 110: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    auxiliary visor panel is rotatably connected to at least a portion    of the base plate or the first auxiliary visor panel, or a    combination thereof.-   Aspect 111: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first    auxiliary visor panel is rotatably connected to at least a portion    of the base plate, and the second auxiliary visor panel is rotatably    connected to a different portion of the first auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 112: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first or    second auxiliary visor panels are rotatably connected to an edge of    the base plate or second auxiliary visor panel, or a combination    thereof.-   Aspect 113: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is rotatably connected to a first edge of the first auxiliary    visor panel, and the second auxiliary visor panel is rotatably    connected to a different edge of the first auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 114: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    auxiliary visor panel is nestably connected to the first auxiliary    visor panel.-   Aspect 115: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge configured to    releasably couple with at least one of: at least one other auxiliary    visor panel edge, or base plate edge, or combinations thereof.-   Aspect 116: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge configured to    releasably couple with at least one of: at least one other auxiliary    visor panel edge, or base plate edge, or combinations thereof.-   Aspect 117: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge configured to    releasably couple with at least one of: at least one other auxiliary    visor panel edge, or base plate edge, or combinations thereof.-   Aspect 118: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge configured to    releasably couple with a first auxiliary visor panel edge and a base    plate edge.-   Aspect 119: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the second    auxiliary visor panel comprises a first edge configured to    releasably couple with a first auxiliary visor panel edge and a    second edge configured to releasably couple with a base plate edge.-   Aspect 120: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the first    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge that define a    cavity for receiving at least a portion of the second auxiliary    visor panel.-   Aspect 121: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a plurality of thickness.-   Aspect 122: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises first and second surfaces.-   Aspect 123: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein at least one    surface of the base plate comprises an elevation portion and a    recessed portion.-   Aspect 124: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the recessed    portion is configured to nestably receive at least a portion of the    first auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 125: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the elevated    portion of the base plate and the cavity of the first auxiliary    visor panel form a substantially planar surface when in a nesting    position.-   Aspect 126: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein an edge of    the elevated portion of the base plate and complimentary edge of the    surface the cavity of the first auxiliary visor panel have an ‘S’ or    crescent shape.-   Aspect 127: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel is rotatably connected to at least a portion    of the base bracket, and the glare shield is rotatably connected to    a different portion of the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 128: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    bracket is rotatably connected to a first edge of the auxiliary    visor panel, and the glare shield is pivotably connected to a    different edge of the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 129: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is nestably connected to the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 130: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel comprises at least one edge configured to    releasably couple with at least one of: vehicle visor, base bracket    edge, or combinations thereof.-   Aspect 131: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising    at least one storage compartment.-   Aspect 132: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the storage    compartment comprises a slot or cavity configured to releasably    secure pens, cards, or a combination thereof.-   Aspect 133: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means comprises a friction fitting, snap ring, O-ring,    pressure fitting, magnetic fitting, clip, clasp, and the like.-   Aspect 134: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the snap    ring or O-ring can be retained within a groove to accommodate the    snap ring or O-ring.-   Aspect 135: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein auxiliary    visor panel comprises a cavity or void for receiving the glare    shield.-   Aspect 136: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is slidably connected to the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 137: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is pivotably connected to the auxiliary visor panel.-   Aspect 138: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is connected using a connecting means.-   Aspect 139: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is configured to extend from the auxiliary visor panel to    reduce glare or bright light when the auxiliary visor panel is a    raised position.-   Aspect 140: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the securing    means comprises a clip, clamp, latch, bracket, snap, fitting, clasp,    Velcro, strap, tie wraps, hook and latch fastener, loop and tie    fastener, cable, elastic, band, button and buttonholes, or    combinations thereof.-   Aspect 141: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    connecting means comprises a hinge or similar connecting mechanism.-   Aspect 142: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the system    can comprise a button or other release mechanism configured to    release the auxiliary panel and/or glare shield from a secured    position.-   Aspect 143: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate can comprise a plurality of securing or connecting means, such    as, and without limitation, Velcro at one portion and a clamping    mechanism on another portion of the base plate.-   Aspect 144: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate can comprise a securing means for releasably securing the    auxiliary visor panel to the base plate.-   Aspect 145: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate can have a rectangular, oval, round, or cylindrical shape.-   Aspect 146: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is comprised of an UV-reducing and/or glare-reducing    material, or a combination thereof.-   Aspect 147: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield is comprised of an opaque, micro-louver, transparent, tinted,    translucent, polarized, phototropic, electrochromic, fabric, cloth,    plastic, woven or non-woven, natural or synthetic material, or    combinations thereof.-   Aspect 148: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the glare    shield comprises a tinted acrylic panel.-   Aspect 149: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel is pivotally mounted to a vehicle visor such    that it can pivot downwardly and away from the primary visor without    encroaching in the user's space when the vehicle visor is in the    side window position.-   Aspect 150: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a triangular shape, and is configured to be secured    to a corner of the vehicle visor.-   Aspect 151: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein at least one    securing means is configured to be secured to first portion of the    vehicle visor, and at least one other securing means is configured    to be secured to a second portion of the vehicle visor.-   Aspect 152: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    other securing means comprises a magnet and corresponding magnetic    element.-   Aspect 153: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the magnet    is disposed within the auxiliary panel.-   Aspect 154: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel further comprises a securing means configured    to releasably secure a portion of the auxiliary visor panel to third    portion of the vehicle visor.-   Aspect 155: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein system    components are releasably coupled using a coupling means.-   Aspect 156: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    means comprise friction fitting, snap ring, O-ring, pressure    fitting, clip, clasp, and the like.-   Aspect 157: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the coupling    means is configured to hold a system component in place until a user    moves the system component to a different position.-   Aspect 158: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises a socket for receiving the pivot ball.-   Aspect 159: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the socket    for receiving the pivot ball is attached to a portion of the    vehicle.-   Aspect 160: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the socket    for receiving the pivot ball is attached to a portion of the vehicle    roof or vehicle visor.-   Aspect 161: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate or base bracket is an OEM vehicle part, and the at least one    auxiliary visor panel is configured to be attached by inserting the    pivot ball in the socket.-   Aspect 162: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate is an OEM vehicle visor comprising a socket for receiving the    pivot ball, and the at least one auxiliary visor panel is configured    to be attached by inserting the pivot ball in the socket.-   Aspect 163: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    retaining means comprises an adjustment knob having at least one of    a clamping arm and clamping face.-   Aspect 164: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to control the motion of the auxiliary    visor panel by adjusting the adjustment knob towards and away from    the pivot ball.-   Aspect 165: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to prevent motion of the auxiliary    visor panel by screwing the adjustment knob towards the pivot ball.-   Aspect 166: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to allow motion of the auxiliary visor    panel by screwing the adjustment knob away from the pivot ball.-   Aspect 167: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to control the motion of the auxiliary    visor panel by tightening the clamping face of the adjustment knob    against the pivot ball.-   Aspect 168: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to prevent movement of the auxiliary    visor panel by tightening the clamping face of the adjustment knob    against the pivot ball.-   Aspect 169: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    adjustment knob is configured to fix the auxiliary visor panel    position by tightening the clamping face of the adjustment knob    against the pivot ball.-   Aspect 170: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the clamping    face of the adjustment knob has an arcuate shape substantially    matching the shape of the pivot ball.-   Aspect 171: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    plate comprises at least two apertures for receiving a securing    means, the apertures being contained within a base plate edge; and    the securing means having first and second opposed ends, the first    end of the securing means being detachably connected to the base    plate by extending through a first aperture from a first side of the    base plate to a second side of the base plate, and by extending    through a second aperture from the second side of the base plate to    the first side of the plate.-   Aspect 172: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a first side    of the base plate is configured to be secured against a surface of    an OEM visor.-   Aspect 173: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a first side    of the base plate comprises a gripping portion.-   Aspect 174: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein a second    side of the base plate comprises a pivot ball joint.-   Aspect 175: The system of any preceding aspect, further comprising    an extendable member, the extendable member having first and second    opposed ends.-   Aspect 176: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    extendable member is connected to the auxiliary panel at a first    end.-   Aspect 177: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    extendable member comprises an extension rod.-   Aspect 178: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    extendable member is connected to the auxiliary panel at a first end    and comprises an extension rod at a second end.-   Aspect 179: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    extendable member comprises a flexible portion at a first end and a    rigid portion at a second end.-   Aspect 180: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    extension rod is configured to telescope from within the extendable    member.-   Aspect 181: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein at least a    portion of the extendable member is configured to be releasably    secured to an OEM visor retention device or clip.-   Aspect 182: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary panel comprises at least one of: at least one internal    housing and at least one outer casing.-   Aspect 183: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary panel comprises at least one internal housing and at least    one outer casing.-   Aspect 184: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the internal    housing comprises a first housing panel and a second housing panel.-   Aspect 185: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the base    bracket comprises at least one securing means configured to be    secured to first portion of a vehicle visor; and wherein the    auxiliary panel comprises at least one securing means configured to    be secured to a second portion of a vehicle visor.-   Aspect 186: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the at least    one securing means of the auxiliary panel comprises a magnet and    corresponding magnetic element, the magnet being configured to    magnetically couple with the corresponding magnetic element.-   Aspect 187: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein at least a    portion of the auxiliary securing mean is disposed within the    auxiliary panel.-   Aspect 188: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the magnet    is disposed within the auxiliary panel.-   Aspect 189: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the magnet    is disposed within the internal housing of the auxiliary panel.-   Aspect 190: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the magnet    is disposed within the internal housing of the auxiliary panel and    the magnetic element is disposed on a surface of or with a vehicle    visor.-   Aspect 191: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the magnetic    element is a metal plate.-   Aspect 192: The system of any preceding aspect, wherein the    auxiliary visor panel contains a telescoping visor extension    configured to lateral extend out from within the auxiliary visor    panel.

While aspects of the present invention can be described and claimed in aparticular statutory class, such as the system statutory class, this isfor convenience only and one of skill in the art will understand thateach aspect of the present invention can be described and claimed in anystatutory class. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no wayintended that any method or aspect set forth herein be construed asrequiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly,where a method claim does not specifically state in the claims ordescriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it isno way appreciably intended that an order be inferred, in any respect.This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation,including matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps oroperational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical organization orpunctuation, or the number or type of aspects described in thespecification.

Throughout this application, various publications are referenced. Thedisclosures of these publications in their entireties are herebyincorporated by reference into this application in order to more fullydescribe the state of the art to which this pertains. The referencesdisclosed are also individually and specifically incorporated byreference herein for the material contained in them that is discussed inthe sentence in which the reference is relied upon. Nothing herein is tobe construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitledto antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, thedates of publication provided herein can be different from the actualpublication dates, which can require independent confirmation.

The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and caninclude other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Suchother examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if theyhave structural elements that do not differ from the literal language ofthe claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements withinsubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

What is claimed:
 1. A vehicle visor system, the system comprising: an articulating bracket configured to be releasably secured to a portion of a vehicle; the articulating bracket comprising a bracket base and a hinge body, a first end of the hinge body configured to pivotably connect with the bracket base at a first pivot axis, and a second end of the hinge body configured to pivotably connect with an auxiliary visor panel at a second pivot axis, a base plate configured to be fixedly secured to the portion of the vehicle, wherein the articulating bracket is configured to be coupled with the base plate for securing to the vehicle; wherein the bracket base is configured to move laterally along the base plate; wherein the bracket base is releasably secured to the base plate in a fixed position using at least one securing component, wherein the bracket base comprises a groove and the base plate comprises a tongue, and wherein the bracket base groove and base plate tongue cooperate to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate at a plurality of position using the at least one securing component; and at least one auxiliary visor panel connected to the articulating bracket.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is mechanically and operationally independent of an OEM car visor; and wherein the system is effective to allow the auxiliary visor panel to be positioned below, above, and laterally adjacent to the OEM car visor.
 3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a first mechanism configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and the first end of the hinge body at the first pivot axis, and a second mechanism configured to pivotably connect the second end of the hinge body and the auxiliary visor panel at the second pivot axis.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the bracket base comprises one or more bracket posts, each of the one or more bracket posts configured to secure an end of a hinge member, and wherein each of the one or more bracket posts and the corresponding hinge body end comprise an aperture dimensioned and shaped to receive and secure the end of the hinge member.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein a top portion of the base plate tongue comprises a recessed portion; and wherein the at least one securing component is configured to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the at least one securing component is configured to extend through an opening within the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate.
 7. The system of claim 6, further comprising a plurality of securing components, wherein the bracket base is configured to be secured when only one securing component is positioned over the base plate tongue and any remaining securing components are unable to engage the base plate tongue.
 8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a glare shield movably connected to an edge of the auxiliary visor panel.
 9. A vehicle accessory system, the system comprising: a base plate assembly comprising a base plate and an articulating bracket, the base plate configured to be fixedly secured to a portion of a vehicle and the articulating bracket configured to be coupled with the base plate for securing to the vehicle; wherein the articulating bracket comprises a bracket base, a hinge body, a first hinge member or mechanism configured to rotatably connect the bracket base and a first end of the hinge body at a first connection axis, and a second hinge member or mechanism configured to movably connect an opposed second end of the hinge body with a visor panel or vehicle accessory at a second connection axis; wherein the articulating bracket is configured to be secured to the base plate at a plurality of locations, wherein the bracket base is configured to move laterally along the base plate, and wherein the bracket base is configured to be releasably secured to the base plate in a fixed position using at least one securing component; and wherein at least one of the visor panel or the vehicle accessory is configured to be connected to the articulating bracket.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the bracket base comprises a groove and the base plate comprises a tongue; wherein said bracket base groove and base plate tongue cooperate to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate at a plurality of position using the at least one securing component; wherein a top portion of the base plate tongue comprises a recessed portion; and wherein the at least one securing component is configured to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base.
 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the bracket base comprises a plurality of bracket posts, each bracket post of the plurality of bracket posts configured to secure an end of a hinge member, and wherein each bracket post of the plurality of bracket posts and corresponding hinge body end comprise an aperture dimensioned and shaped to receive and secure an end of the hinge member or mechanism.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the at least one securing component is configured to extend through an opening within the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate; and wherein each securing component is rotatably connected to the bracket post.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the second end of the hinge body is configured to interchangeably connect with a plurality of auxiliary visor panels or vehicle accessories.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the vehicle accessory comprises at least one of: a flat rectangular fan, Heads-Up-Projector (HUD), dash camera, back up camera display, auxiliary rearview mirror for expanding viewable area, or a combination thereof, or the like.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the articulating bracket comprises at least one hinge member or mechanism configured to pivotably connect the bracket base and the hinge body at a first pivot axis or connection axis.
 16. A vehicle visor system, the system comprising: an articulating bracket configured to be releasably secured to a portion of a vehicle, the articulating bracket comprising a bracket base and a hinge body, a first end of the hinge body configured to pivotably connect with the bracket base at a first pivot axis using a first hinge mechanism, and a second end of the hinge body configured to pivotably connect with an auxiliary visor panel at a second pivot axis using a second hinge mechanism, wherein the bracket base comprises one or more bracket posts, each of the one or more bracket posts configured to secure an end of a hinge member, and wherein each bracket post and corresponding hinge body end comprise an aperture dimensioned and shaped to receive and secure an end of a hinge mechanism or member; a base plate configured to be fixedly secured to the portion of the vehicle, and wherein the articulating bracket configured to be detachably coupled with the base plate for securing to the vehicle, the articulating bracket configured to be secured at a plurality of locations by moving laterally along the base plate; and at least one auxiliary visor panel releasably connected to the articulating bracket, wherein the bracket base comprises a groove and the base plate comprises a tongue, and wherein said bracket base groove and base plate tongue cooperate to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate at a plurality of position using at least one securing component; and wherein a top portion of the base plate tongue comprises a recessed portion; and wherein the at least one securing component is configured to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base; and wherein the at least one securing component is configured to extend through an opening within the bracket base to cooperate with the recessed portion to releasably secure the bracket base to the base plate. 